Brunch Bites: Dolce Italian and State and Lake Chicago Tavern

Now you can brunch (or breakfast) the Italian way thanks to the onset of daily breakfast service at River North's chic Dolce Italian. The restaurant inside the Godfrey Hotel rose to quick prominence for its ritzy dinner fare and cocktails, and with the addition of a daily breakfast program, the restaurant offers a more accessible and economical means of experiencing this hip newcomer. Available from 7:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., morning offerings include Italian "toast" with fried eggs, ham, and Swiss cheese; smoked salmon and scrambled eggs; pancakes with strawberry compote and creme fraiche; and a croissant breakfast sandwich.

In boozier brunch news, State and Lake Chicago Tavern has upped the ante on its weekend protocol with the launch of its new "beer brunch" program. Every Saturday and Sunday, the Loop restaurant features a slew of dishes inspired by Goose Island beers. Each entree can be paired with a craft beer for $20. Options include house-cured pastrami corned beef hash with Matilda Belgian Style Ale; Tavern Benedict with Goose Island IPA; "bread pudding" French toast with St. Genevieve Belgian-style Wit; and coal miner poutine with Green Line Pale Ale. Beer Brunch is available every weekend from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.

Creative takes on traditional dishes made from local and regional ingredients pair with artisanal beers, an all-American wine list and handcrafted, classic cocktails in this hotel dining room.State and Lake's...